Distribution of Chronic Wasting Disease in North America, updated April 19, 2024.
Biological Threats
Invasive Species Can Be Disastrous
The environmental, economic, and health-related costs of invasive species exceed those of all other disasters combined.
SARS-CoV-2 Risk to North American Bats
USGS works closely with other experts to help limit the transmission of diseases from humans to wildlife.
Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza, aka. “Bird Flu”
Avian influenza is a deadly disease that affects waterfowl, but can also be costly to U.S. poultry industry.
Some diseases that pass through our environment can be devastating to wildlife, livestock, agriculture, forestry, human health, and recreation. The USGS has many different tools to monitor the spread of certain pathogens and better define how these diseases impact the natural world.
Monitoring Biological Threats
USGS scientists have unique expertise in investigating biological threats such as wildlife diseases, chemical contaminants, pathogens, invasive species, and other environmental challenges. A better understanding of these issues and conditions informs decisions that support a healthy and resilient America.
Assessing the Seen and Unseen
Biological threats can range in size from microscopic to global. The USGS delivers science to protect public safety, property, and ecosystems from existing and emerging hazards.
Examples of Biological Threats
Biological threats like diseases and invasive species can spread through nature, causing an incredible ripple effect on human populations. Biological threats can endanger wildlife, livestock, agriculture, forestry, public health, and recreational resources that people rely on. The USGS studies a range of biological hazards to help limit their impacts.
Animal Diseases and Pathogen Transmission
Invasive Species and Nonnative Competition
Spills, blooms, and aquatic hazards
Zoonotic Diseases
Biosurveillance
Harmful Algal Blooms
The Cost of Biological Threats
Biological threats have an impact on our ecosystem, public safety, and the economy. Sometimes these impacts may be small, while others can be catastrophic. The USGS works with its partners to monitor the different threats and provides insights and resources that help protect people, the environment, and our Nation’s infrastructure.
Publications
WHISPers—Providing situational awareness of wildlife disease threats to the Nation—A fact sheet for the biosurveillance community
Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI): An emerging disease threat in North America
Hidden in plain sight: Detecting invasive species when they are morphologically similar to native species
Snake fungal disease: An emerging threat to wild snakes
Science
Q&A: Bird Flu - Ongoing Threat of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in Alaska and North America
Wildlife Disease and Environmental Health in Alaska
Decision science support for Chronic Wasting Disease
Algal Toxins and Wildlife Health
Using Robots in the River: Biosurveillance at USGS streamgages
Multimedia
Distribution of Chronic Wasting Disease in North America, updated April 19, 2024.
Spaceborne sensors orbit hundreds of miles over our heads. Even the most advanced among them struggle to capture high-resolution imagery of individual human beings. Mosquitos, of course, are far smaller than we are. Clearly, sensors on a satellite or space station can’t see them.
Spaceborne sensors orbit hundreds of miles over our heads. Even the most advanced among them struggle to capture high-resolution imagery of individual human beings. Mosquitos, of course, are far smaller than we are. Clearly, sensors on a satellite or space station can’t see them.
In the winter of 2015, the public noticed thousands of dead seabirds washing ashore across the western coast of the United States and Canada. The USGS linked this massive seabird die-off to the North Pacific Marine Heatwave. A marine heatwave occurs when sea surface temperatures are above normal for an extended period of time.
In the winter of 2015, the public noticed thousands of dead seabirds washing ashore across the western coast of the United States and Canada. The USGS linked this massive seabird die-off to the North Pacific Marine Heatwave. A marine heatwave occurs when sea surface temperatures are above normal for an extended period of time.
Welcome to the "I Am A..." series, a whiteboard animation video series highlighting USGS careers.
Welcome to the "I Am A..." series, a whiteboard animation video series highlighting USGS careers.
Long-wave ultraviolet (UV) light can be used to detect orange fluorescence associated with white-nose syndrome (https://www.usgs.gov/centers/nwhc/science/white-nose-syndrome-surveillance) on bat skin.
Long-wave ultraviolet (UV) light can be used to detect orange fluorescence associated with white-nose syndrome (https://www.usgs.gov/centers/nwhc/science/white-nose-syndrome-surveillance) on bat skin.
The USGS Ecosystems Mission Area brings you Outstanding in the Field, a series of stories about our science, our adventures, and our efforts to better understand our fish and wildlife and the ecosystems that support them.
The USGS Ecosystems Mission Area brings you Outstanding in the Field, a series of stories about our science, our adventures, and our efforts to better understand our fish and wildlife and the ecosystems that support them.
A coqui frog sits on a red ti leaf, next to a quarter for scale. Native to Puerto Rico, coqui frogs are an invasive species in Hawaii.
A coqui frog sits on a red ti leaf, next to a quarter for scale. Native to Puerto Rico, coqui frogs are an invasive species in Hawaii.
Invasive black and white tegu lizards (Salvator merianae). USGS is working on development of tools for the detection and capture of invasive reptiles in Florida.
Invasive black and white tegu lizards (Salvator merianae). USGS is working on development of tools for the detection and capture of invasive reptiles in Florida.
Digitally-colorized negative-stained transmission electron micrograph of avian influenza viruses. Credit CDC/F.A. Murphy
Digitally-colorized negative-stained transmission electron micrograph of avian influenza viruses. Credit CDC/F.A. Murphy
WHISPers—Providing situational awareness of wildlife disease threats to the Nation—A fact sheet for the biosurveillance community
Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI): An emerging disease threat in North America
Hidden in plain sight: Detecting invasive species when they are morphologically similar to native species
Snake fungal disease: An emerging threat to wild snakes
Q&A: Bird Flu - Ongoing Threat of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in Alaska and North America
Wildlife Disease and Environmental Health in Alaska
Decision science support for Chronic Wasting Disease
Algal Toxins and Wildlife Health
Using Robots in the River: Biosurveillance at USGS streamgages
Large Oil Spills
Invasive Carp Early Detection
Threats to protected areas
Nonindigenous Aquatic Species (NAS) Program
U.S. Register of Introduced and Invasive Species StoryMap
Comprehensive and Authoritative Lists of Non-Native Taxa Established in Alaska, Hawaii, and the Conterminous United States.
Avian Influenza Geonarrative
The USGS Ecosystems Mission Area provides science to understand wildlife diseases, including avian influenza (AI). Avian influenza viruses occur naturally in wild birds such as ducks, geese, swans, and gulls. These viruses generally do not cause illness in wild birds but they can be highly pathogenic and cause illness and death in poultry and wildlife. Learn more with this geonarrative.
Oregon Lake Profile Analysis Tools
In response to recent harmful algal blooms (HABs) that have occurred in many of the large water storage reservoirs in the Willamette River Basin the USGS is measuring related water-quality parameters in Detroit Lake, Blue River Lake, and Cougar Lake. The USGS has also developed profiler tools that allow users to see how the water quality parameters vary with depth in those reservoirs.
Explore USGS Invasive Species Research
The USGS provides information and tools needed to help solve problems posed by invasive species across the country. Key components of USGS invasive species science include developing novel prevention, forecasting, early detection, decision support, and control tools.
USGS Biosurveillance Network
USGS is leading efforts in risk prediction and forecasting, early detection, enhanced situational awareness, and consequence management for biological threats.
Distribution of Chronic Wasting Disease in North America, updated April 19, 2024.
Distribution of Chronic Wasting Disease in North America, updated April 19, 2024.
Spaceborne sensors orbit hundreds of miles over our heads. Even the most advanced among them struggle to capture high-resolution imagery of individual human beings. Mosquitos, of course, are far smaller than we are. Clearly, sensors on a satellite or space station can’t see them.
Spaceborne sensors orbit hundreds of miles over our heads. Even the most advanced among them struggle to capture high-resolution imagery of individual human beings. Mosquitos, of course, are far smaller than we are. Clearly, sensors on a satellite or space station can’t see them.
In the winter of 2015, the public noticed thousands of dead seabirds washing ashore across the western coast of the United States and Canada. The USGS linked this massive seabird die-off to the North Pacific Marine Heatwave. A marine heatwave occurs when sea surface temperatures are above normal for an extended period of time.
In the winter of 2015, the public noticed thousands of dead seabirds washing ashore across the western coast of the United States and Canada. The USGS linked this massive seabird die-off to the North Pacific Marine Heatwave. A marine heatwave occurs when sea surface temperatures are above normal for an extended period of time.
Welcome to the "I Am A..." series, a whiteboard animation video series highlighting USGS careers.
Welcome to the "I Am A..." series, a whiteboard animation video series highlighting USGS careers.
Long-wave ultraviolet (UV) light can be used to detect orange fluorescence associated with white-nose syndrome (https://www.usgs.gov/centers/nwhc/science/white-nose-syndrome-surveillance) on bat skin.
Long-wave ultraviolet (UV) light can be used to detect orange fluorescence associated with white-nose syndrome (https://www.usgs.gov/centers/nwhc/science/white-nose-syndrome-surveillance) on bat skin.
The USGS Ecosystems Mission Area brings you Outstanding in the Field, a series of stories about our science, our adventures, and our efforts to better understand our fish and wildlife and the ecosystems that support them.
The USGS Ecosystems Mission Area brings you Outstanding in the Field, a series of stories about our science, our adventures, and our efforts to better understand our fish and wildlife and the ecosystems that support them.
A coqui frog sits on a red ti leaf, next to a quarter for scale. Native to Puerto Rico, coqui frogs are an invasive species in Hawaii.
A coqui frog sits on a red ti leaf, next to a quarter for scale. Native to Puerto Rico, coqui frogs are an invasive species in Hawaii.
Invasive black and white tegu lizards (Salvator merianae). USGS is working on development of tools for the detection and capture of invasive reptiles in Florida.
Invasive black and white tegu lizards (Salvator merianae). USGS is working on development of tools for the detection and capture of invasive reptiles in Florida.
Digitally-colorized negative-stained transmission electron micrograph of avian influenza viruses. Credit CDC/F.A. Murphy
Digitally-colorized negative-stained transmission electron micrograph of avian influenza viruses. Credit CDC/F.A. Murphy
For more information on avian influenza, see http://www.pwrc.usgs.gov/ai.
For more information on avian influenza, see http://www.pwrc.usgs.gov/ai.
The Hawaiian Islands’ beautiful ocean and beaches attract more than 8.5 million tourists each year. The USGS aims to help Hawaii preserve its underwater natural resources by tracing how oceanography may influence coral disease outbreaks.
The Hawaiian Islands’ beautiful ocean and beaches attract more than 8.5 million tourists each year. The USGS aims to help Hawaii preserve its underwater natural resources by tracing how oceanography may influence coral disease outbreaks.
Blue-winged teal in Texas. Inset shows avian influenza virus
Blue-winged teal in Texas. Inset shows avian influenza virus
A bull elk with chronic wasting disease at Wind Cave National Park. The emaciated appearance and drooping ears are characteristic of latter stages of infection.
A bull elk with chronic wasting disease at Wind Cave National Park. The emaciated appearance and drooping ears are characteristic of latter stages of infection.
White-nose syndrome is a deadly disease in North American bats that has been spreading rapidly since its 2006 discovery in N.Y. State. Thus far, bat declines in the northeastern U.S. have exceeded 80%. For the first time, scientists with the U.S.
White-nose syndrome is a deadly disease in North American bats that has been spreading rapidly since its 2006 discovery in N.Y. State. Thus far, bat declines in the northeastern U.S. have exceeded 80%. For the first time, scientists with the U.S.
Zoonotic diseases are those that are spread between wildlife and humans, and are an increasing health threat in the U.S. and throughout the world. As such diseases emerge, scientists with the U.S.
Zoonotic diseases are those that are spread between wildlife and humans, and are an increasing health threat in the U.S. and throughout the world. As such diseases emerge, scientists with the U.S.
Want to stay on top of wildlife disease developments throughout the world? USGS scientists Josh Dein and Hon Ip, and USGS web content manager Cris Marsh tell us how with some great Web tracking tools.
Want to stay on top of wildlife disease developments throughout the world? USGS scientists Josh Dein and Hon Ip, and USGS web content manager Cris Marsh tell us how with some great Web tracking tools.
The zebra mussel (Dreissena polymorpha) is a small, non-native mussel originally found in Russia. In 1988, this animal was transported to North America in the ballast water of a transatlantic freighter and colonized parts of Lake St. Clair. In less than ten years, zebra mussels spread to all five Great Lakes.
The zebra mussel (Dreissena polymorpha) is a small, non-native mussel originally found in Russia. In 1988, this animal was transported to North America in the ballast water of a transatlantic freighter and colonized parts of Lake St. Clair. In less than ten years, zebra mussels spread to all five Great Lakes.
Figure 1. Examples of (left) a Sonoran Desert landscape showing the characteristic arrangement of patches of native vegetation separated by bare ground; and (right) a Sonoran Desert landscape that has been invaded by buffelgrass, which fills in the open spaces to form a relatively continuous mat of highly flamm
Figure 1. Examples of (left) a Sonoran Desert landscape showing the characteristic arrangement of patches of native vegetation separated by bare ground; and (right) a Sonoran Desert landscape that has been invaded by buffelgrass, which fills in the open spaces to form a relatively continuous mat of highly flamm
This female Burmese python broke the records for her length - 17 feet, 7 inches - and the number of eggs she contained: 87. She was first captured in Everglades National Park by USGS researchers in the spring of 2012, when they followed a "Judas snake" - a male python with a transmitter - and found her nearby in the bushes.
This female Burmese python broke the records for her length - 17 feet, 7 inches - and the number of eggs she contained: 87. She was first captured in Everglades National Park by USGS researchers in the spring of 2012, when they followed a "Judas snake" - a male python with a transmitter - and found her nearby in the bushes.
Bighead carp are a large and troublesome invasive species from Asia found in the great rivers of the central United States.
Bighead carp are a large and troublesome invasive species from Asia found in the great rivers of the central United States.
Gif of Asian carp, phragmites, and zebra mussels
Gif of Asian carp, phragmites, and zebra mussels
One Health
Bird Flu
European Green Crabs
White-nosed Syndrome
How do scientists study avian influenza in wild birds?
To learn more about the impacts of avian influenza on wild birds and the role wild birds may play in the spread of the virus, experts from government agencies have gathered samples from hundreds of thousands of live-captured, apparently healthy wild birds, hunter-harvested birds, and dead wild birds of all species. Testing methods include analyses of fecal samples and swabs of the bird’s trachea...
What should I do if I find sick or dead wildlife?
A cluster of sick or dead animals in an area might indicate a wildlife disease of concern. If you find sick or dead wildlife, contact your closest state or federal wildlife agency ; they can decide whether to investigate. You might also contact your local health department to report this occurrence.
Should I be concerned about radon in my house?
You can get an idea as to how concerned you should be about radon in your house by learning about the geology of the site and its radon potential. If your house is in an area the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) shows has a high potential for radon, then chances are that your house may have an indoor radon problem. However, the way a house is built can increase the risk - so even in areas of...
Why are pollinating bats, birds, bees, butterflies, and other animals important?
Do you enjoy a hot cup of coffee, a juicy peach, an-apple-a-day, almonds, rich and creamy dates, a handful of plump cashews, or vine-ripened tomatoes? Do you enjoy seeing the native flowers and plants that surround you? If so, you depend on pollinators. Wherever flowering plants flourish, pollinating bees, birds, butterflies, bats and other animals are hard at work, providing vital but often...
What should I do if I find dead or dying bats, or if I observe bats with signs of White-nose Syndrome?
If you find a dead or dying bat: Contact your state wildlife agency , file an electronic report in those states that offer this service, e-mail U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service biologists in your area, or contact your nearest Fish and Wildlife Service field office to report your potential White-nose Syndrome (WNS) observations. It is important to determine the species of bat in case it is a...
What is an invasive species and why are they a problem?
An invasive species is an introduced, nonnative organism (disease, parasite, plant, or animal) that begins to spread or expand its range from the site of its original introduction and that has the potential to cause harm to the environment, the economy, or to human health. A few well-known examples include the unintentional introduction of the West Nile virus, chestnut blight, the South American...
What is chronic wasting disease?
Chronic wasting disease (CWD) is a fatal, neurological illness occurring in North American cervids (members of the deer family), including white-tailed deer, mule deer, elk, and moose. Since its discovery in 1967, CWD has spread geographically and increased in prevalence locally. CWD is contagious; it can be transmitted freely within and among cervid populations. No treatments or vaccines are...
Where in the United States has West Nile Virus been detected in wildlife?
West Nile Virus has been detected in all conterminous states of the U.S., the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. Alaska, Hawaii, and Guam have no reported cases of West Nile virus in humans or animals. Distribution maps are available from the Centers for Disease Control. Learn more: Vector-Borne Diseases
- Overview
Examples of Biological Threats
Biological threats like diseases and invasive species can spread through nature, causing an incredible ripple effect on human populations. Biological threats can endanger wildlife, livestock, agriculture, forestry, public health, and recreational resources that people rely on. The USGS studies a range of biological hazards to help limit their impacts.
Animal Diseases and Pathogen TransmissionAnimal Diseases and Pathogen TransmissionInvasive Species and Nonnative CompetitionInvasive Species and Nonnative CompetitionSpills, blooms, and aquatic hazardsSpills, blooms, and aquatic hazardsZoonotic DiseasesZoonotic DiseasesBiosurveillanceBiosurveillanceHarmful Algal BloomsHarmful Algal BloomsThe Cost of Biological Threats
Biological threats have an impact on our ecosystem, public safety, and the economy. Sometimes these impacts may be small, while others can be catastrophic. The USGS works with its partners to monitor the different threats and provides insights and resources that help protect people, the environment, and our Nation’s infrastructure.
Publications
WHISPers—Providing situational awareness of wildlife disease threats to the Nation—A fact sheet for the biosurveillance community
Solutions for emerging infectious disease and bioterror threats can be improved by incorporating integrated biodefense strategies, including improved surveillance for animal and zoonotic diseases, strong national leadership, and effective management tools. Active biosurveillance for disease events is key to early detection, warning, and overall situational awareness and enables better communicatioAuthorsBryan J. Richards, Kimberli J.G. Miller, C. LeAnn WhiteHighly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI): An emerging disease threat in North America
Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) is an ecologically and economically significant avian disease that is quickly spreading among wild and domestic birds throughout North America. In this blog post, we provide information and resources that can help you to be informed, be prepared, and be ready to take appropriate action should you observe wild birds that may be affected by HPAI.AuthorsAndrew M. Ramey, Colleen M. HandelHidden in plain sight: Detecting invasive species when they are morphologically similar to native species
Early detection and rapid response (EDRR) can help mitigate and control invasive species outbreaks early on but its success is dependent on accurate identification of invasive species. We evaluated a novel outbreak in San Diego County, California of the Sonoran Spotted Whiptail (Aspidoscelis sonorae) in order to confirm their spread as well as quantify how to better detect and potentially manage tAuthorsSamuel R Fisher, Robert N. Fisher, Gregory B. PaulySnake fungal disease: An emerging threat to wild snakes
Since 2006, there has been a marked increase in the number of reports of severe and often fatal fungal skin infections in wild snakes in the eastern USA. The emerging condition, referred to as snake fungal disease (SFD), was initially documented in rattlesnakes, where the infections were believed to pose a risk to the viability of affected populations. The disease is caused byOphidiomyces ophiodiiAuthorsJeffrey M. Lorch, Susan Knowles, Julia S. Lankton, Kathy Michell, Jaime L. Edwards, Joshua M. Kapfer, Richard A. Staffen, Erik R. Wild, Katie Z. Schmidt, Anne Ballmann, Doug Blodgett, Terence M. Farrell, Brad M. Glorioso, Lisa A. Last, Steven J. Price, Krysten L. Schuler, Christopher Smith, James F. X. Wellehan, David S. BlehertScience
Q&A: Bird Flu - Ongoing Threat of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in Alaska and North America
The USGS has cooperated with federal, state, and tribal partners to conduct research on Avian Influenza (AI) viruses and to assist with response to outbreaks of highly pathogenic AI (HPAI) since 2006. Read ahead for information about HPAI, the occurrence of HPAI among wildlife, USGS-led research and surveillance efforts, and potentially helpful online resources.Wildlife Disease and Environmental Health in Alaska
Environmental health is defined by connections between the physical environment, ecological health, and human health. Current research within the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) recognizes the importance of this integrated research philosophy, which includes study of disease and pollutants as they pertain to both wildlife and humans. Due to its key geographic location and significant wildlife...Decision science support for Chronic Wasting Disease
Eastern Ecological Science Center adds the decision analytical skill set to the existing body of USGS expertise on Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD), in support of our sister DOI agencies.Algal Toxins and Wildlife Health
Harmful algal blooms (HABs) have the potential to harm fish and wildlife, domestic animals, livestock, and humans through toxin production or ecological disturbances such as oxygen depletion and blockage of sunlight.Using Robots in the River: Biosurveillance at USGS streamgages
For more than a decade, researchers around the world have shown that sampling a water body and analyzing for DNA (a method known as eDNA) is an effective method to detect an organism in the water. The challenge is that finding organisms that are not very abundant requires a lot of samples to locate this needle in a haystack. Enter the "lab in a can", the water quality sampling and processing robot...Multimedia
Distribution of Chronic Wasting Disease in North AmericaDistribution of Chronic Wasting Disease in North AmericaDistribution of Chronic Wasting Disease in North America, updated April 19, 2024.
Distribution of Chronic Wasting Disease in North America, updated April 19, 2024.
Eyes on Earth Episode 76 – ECOSTRESS and Disease RiskEyes on Earth Episode 76 – ECOSTRESS and Disease RiskSpaceborne sensors orbit hundreds of miles over our heads. Even the most advanced among them struggle to capture high-resolution imagery of individual human beings. Mosquitos, of course, are far smaller than we are. Clearly, sensors on a satellite or space station can’t see them.
Spaceborne sensors orbit hundreds of miles over our heads. Even the most advanced among them struggle to capture high-resolution imagery of individual human beings. Mosquitos, of course, are far smaller than we are. Clearly, sensors on a satellite or space station can’t see them.
North Pacific Marine HeatwaveIn the winter of 2015, the public noticed thousands of dead seabirds washing ashore across the western coast of the United States and Canada. The USGS linked this massive seabird die-off to the North Pacific Marine Heatwave. A marine heatwave occurs when sea surface temperatures are above normal for an extended period of time.
In the winter of 2015, the public noticed thousands of dead seabirds washing ashore across the western coast of the United States and Canada. The USGS linked this massive seabird die-off to the North Pacific Marine Heatwave. A marine heatwave occurs when sea surface temperatures are above normal for an extended period of time.
I Am A...Disease EcologistWelcome to the "I Am A..." series, a whiteboard animation video series highlighting USGS careers.
Welcome to the "I Am A..." series, a whiteboard animation video series highlighting USGS careers.
UV Screening for Bat White-Nose Syndrome SurveillanceUV Screening for Bat White-Nose Syndrome SurveillanceUV Screening for Bat White-Nose Syndrome SurveillanceLong-wave ultraviolet (UV) light can be used to detect orange fluorescence associated with white-nose syndrome (https://www.usgs.gov/centers/nwhc/science/white-nose-syndrome-surveillance) on bat skin.
Long-wave ultraviolet (UV) light can be used to detect orange fluorescence associated with white-nose syndrome (https://www.usgs.gov/centers/nwhc/science/white-nose-syndrome-surveillance) on bat skin.
Outstanding in the Field (Ep 3): Chronic Wasting Disease - Oh, DeerOutstanding in the Field (Ep 3): Chronic Wasting Disease - Oh, DeerThe USGS Ecosystems Mission Area brings you Outstanding in the Field, a series of stories about our science, our adventures, and our efforts to better understand our fish and wildlife and the ecosystems that support them.
The USGS Ecosystems Mission Area brings you Outstanding in the Field, a series of stories about our science, our adventures, and our efforts to better understand our fish and wildlife and the ecosystems that support them.
Coqui frog on a red ti leafA coqui frog sits on a red ti leaf, next to a quarter for scale. Native to Puerto Rico, coqui frogs are an invasive species in Hawaii.
A coqui frog sits on a red ti leaf, next to a quarter for scale. Native to Puerto Rico, coqui frogs are an invasive species in Hawaii.
Invasive black and white tegu lizards (Salvator merianae).Invasive black and white tegu lizards (Salvator merianae).Invasive black and white tegu lizards (Salvator merianae). USGS is working on development of tools for the detection and capture of invasive reptiles in Florida.
Invasive black and white tegu lizards (Salvator merianae). USGS is working on development of tools for the detection and capture of invasive reptiles in Florida.
Avian influenza virusDigitally-colorized negative-stained transmission electron micrograph of avian influenza viruses. Credit CDC/F.A. Murphy
Digitally-colorized negative-stained transmission electron micrograph of avian influenza viruses. Credit CDC/F.A. Murphy
- Publications
WHISPers—Providing situational awareness of wildlife disease threats to the Nation—A fact sheet for the biosurveillance community
Solutions for emerging infectious disease and bioterror threats can be improved by incorporating integrated biodefense strategies, including improved surveillance for animal and zoonotic diseases, strong national leadership, and effective management tools. Active biosurveillance for disease events is key to early detection, warning, and overall situational awareness and enables better communicatioAuthorsBryan J. Richards, Kimberli J.G. Miller, C. LeAnn WhiteHighly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI): An emerging disease threat in North America
Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) is an ecologically and economically significant avian disease that is quickly spreading among wild and domestic birds throughout North America. In this blog post, we provide information and resources that can help you to be informed, be prepared, and be ready to take appropriate action should you observe wild birds that may be affected by HPAI.AuthorsAndrew M. Ramey, Colleen M. HandelHidden in plain sight: Detecting invasive species when they are morphologically similar to native species
Early detection and rapid response (EDRR) can help mitigate and control invasive species outbreaks early on but its success is dependent on accurate identification of invasive species. We evaluated a novel outbreak in San Diego County, California of the Sonoran Spotted Whiptail (Aspidoscelis sonorae) in order to confirm their spread as well as quantify how to better detect and potentially manage tAuthorsSamuel R Fisher, Robert N. Fisher, Gregory B. PaulySnake fungal disease: An emerging threat to wild snakes
Since 2006, there has been a marked increase in the number of reports of severe and often fatal fungal skin infections in wild snakes in the eastern USA. The emerging condition, referred to as snake fungal disease (SFD), was initially documented in rattlesnakes, where the infections were believed to pose a risk to the viability of affected populations. The disease is caused byOphidiomyces ophiodiiAuthorsJeffrey M. Lorch, Susan Knowles, Julia S. Lankton, Kathy Michell, Jaime L. Edwards, Joshua M. Kapfer, Richard A. Staffen, Erik R. Wild, Katie Z. Schmidt, Anne Ballmann, Doug Blodgett, Terence M. Farrell, Brad M. Glorioso, Lisa A. Last, Steven J. Price, Krysten L. Schuler, Christopher Smith, James F. X. Wellehan, David S. Blehert - Science
Q&A: Bird Flu - Ongoing Threat of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in Alaska and North America
The USGS has cooperated with federal, state, and tribal partners to conduct research on Avian Influenza (AI) viruses and to assist with response to outbreaks of highly pathogenic AI (HPAI) since 2006. Read ahead for information about HPAI, the occurrence of HPAI among wildlife, USGS-led research and surveillance efforts, and potentially helpful online resources.Wildlife Disease and Environmental Health in Alaska
Environmental health is defined by connections between the physical environment, ecological health, and human health. Current research within the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) recognizes the importance of this integrated research philosophy, which includes study of disease and pollutants as they pertain to both wildlife and humans. Due to its key geographic location and significant wildlife...Decision science support for Chronic Wasting Disease
Eastern Ecological Science Center adds the decision analytical skill set to the existing body of USGS expertise on Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD), in support of our sister DOI agencies.Algal Toxins and Wildlife Health
Harmful algal blooms (HABs) have the potential to harm fish and wildlife, domestic animals, livestock, and humans through toxin production or ecological disturbances such as oxygen depletion and blockage of sunlight.Using Robots in the River: Biosurveillance at USGS streamgages
For more than a decade, researchers around the world have shown that sampling a water body and analyzing for DNA (a method known as eDNA) is an effective method to detect an organism in the water. The challenge is that finding organisms that are not very abundant requires a lot of samples to locate this needle in a haystack. Enter the "lab in a can", the water quality sampling and processing robot...Large Oil Spills
Oil spills, such as the 2010 Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill, are impactful environmental disasters that have long lasting effects to the landscape, native species, and inhabitants who depend on the area. The USGS explores the adverse effect that large-scale oil spills have on the environment and helps responders prepare for environmental recovery and rehabilitation.Invasive Carp Early Detection
Increased threat of Invasive carp entering the Great Lakes and spreading to other basins such as the Upper Mississippi River and Ohio River basins, has led to increased prevention and control efforts since 2010. In collaboration with partners, USGS scientists are testing early detection methods and technologies to enhance the ability of agencies to manage Invasive carp to minimize their influence...Threats to protected areas
Land-use intensification poses significant threats to biodiversity both directly through the alteration and fragmentation of ecosystems and habitat loss, and indirectly through the disruption of supporting ecological processes. While protected areas offer refugia for species and ecosystems, they do not function in isolation from surrounding natural, working, or human-dominated landscapes...Nonindigenous Aquatic Species (NAS) Program
Welcome to the Nonindigenous Aquatic Species (NAS) information resource for the United States Geological Survey. Located at Gainesville, Florida, this site has been established as a central repository for spatially referenced biogeographic accounts of introduced aquatic species. The program provides scientific reports, online/realtime queries, spatial data sets, distribution maps, and general... - Data and More
U.S. Register of Introduced and Invasive Species StoryMap
Comprehensive and Authoritative Lists of Non-Native Taxa Established in Alaska, Hawaii, and the Conterminous United States.
Avian Influenza Geonarrative
The USGS Ecosystems Mission Area provides science to understand wildlife diseases, including avian influenza (AI). Avian influenza viruses occur naturally in wild birds such as ducks, geese, swans, and gulls. These viruses generally do not cause illness in wild birds but they can be highly pathogenic and cause illness and death in poultry and wildlife. Learn more with this geonarrative.
ByEcosystems Mission Area, Biological Threats and Invasive Species Research Program, Cooperative Research Units, Alaska Science Center, Eastern Ecological Science Center, National Wildlife Health Center, Upper Midwest Environmental Sciences Center, Upper Midwest Water Science Center, Western Ecological Research Center (WERC)Oregon Lake Profile Analysis Tools
In response to recent harmful algal blooms (HABs) that have occurred in many of the large water storage reservoirs in the Willamette River Basin the USGS is measuring related water-quality parameters in Detroit Lake, Blue River Lake, and Cougar Lake. The USGS has also developed profiler tools that allow users to see how the water quality parameters vary with depth in those reservoirs.
Explore USGS Invasive Species Research
The USGS provides information and tools needed to help solve problems posed by invasive species across the country. Key components of USGS invasive species science include developing novel prevention, forecasting, early detection, decision support, and control tools.
USGS Biosurveillance Network
USGS is leading efforts in risk prediction and forecasting, early detection, enhanced situational awareness, and consequence management for biological threats.
- Multimedia
Distribution of Chronic Wasting Disease in North AmericaDistribution of Chronic Wasting Disease in North America
Distribution of Chronic Wasting Disease in North America, updated April 19, 2024.
Distribution of Chronic Wasting Disease in North America, updated April 19, 2024.
Eyes on Earth Episode 76 – ECOSTRESS and Disease RiskEyes on Earth Episode 76 – ECOSTRESS and Disease RiskSpaceborne sensors orbit hundreds of miles over our heads. Even the most advanced among them struggle to capture high-resolution imagery of individual human beings. Mosquitos, of course, are far smaller than we are. Clearly, sensors on a satellite or space station can’t see them.
Spaceborne sensors orbit hundreds of miles over our heads. Even the most advanced among them struggle to capture high-resolution imagery of individual human beings. Mosquitos, of course, are far smaller than we are. Clearly, sensors on a satellite or space station can’t see them.
North Pacific Marine HeatwaveIn the winter of 2015, the public noticed thousands of dead seabirds washing ashore across the western coast of the United States and Canada. The USGS linked this massive seabird die-off to the North Pacific Marine Heatwave. A marine heatwave occurs when sea surface temperatures are above normal for an extended period of time.
In the winter of 2015, the public noticed thousands of dead seabirds washing ashore across the western coast of the United States and Canada. The USGS linked this massive seabird die-off to the North Pacific Marine Heatwave. A marine heatwave occurs when sea surface temperatures are above normal for an extended period of time.
I Am A...Disease EcologistWelcome to the "I Am A..." series, a whiteboard animation video series highlighting USGS careers.
Welcome to the "I Am A..." series, a whiteboard animation video series highlighting USGS careers.
UV Screening for Bat White-Nose Syndrome SurveillanceUV Screening for Bat White-Nose Syndrome SurveillanceUV Screening for Bat White-Nose Syndrome SurveillanceLong-wave ultraviolet (UV) light can be used to detect orange fluorescence associated with white-nose syndrome (https://www.usgs.gov/centers/nwhc/science/white-nose-syndrome-surveillance) on bat skin.
Long-wave ultraviolet (UV) light can be used to detect orange fluorescence associated with white-nose syndrome (https://www.usgs.gov/centers/nwhc/science/white-nose-syndrome-surveillance) on bat skin.
Outstanding in the Field (Ep 3): Chronic Wasting Disease - Oh, DeerOutstanding in the Field (Ep 3): Chronic Wasting Disease - Oh, DeerThe USGS Ecosystems Mission Area brings you Outstanding in the Field, a series of stories about our science, our adventures, and our efforts to better understand our fish and wildlife and the ecosystems that support them.
The USGS Ecosystems Mission Area brings you Outstanding in the Field, a series of stories about our science, our adventures, and our efforts to better understand our fish and wildlife and the ecosystems that support them.
Coqui frog on a red ti leafA coqui frog sits on a red ti leaf, next to a quarter for scale. Native to Puerto Rico, coqui frogs are an invasive species in Hawaii.
A coqui frog sits on a red ti leaf, next to a quarter for scale. Native to Puerto Rico, coqui frogs are an invasive species in Hawaii.
Invasive black and white tegu lizards (Salvator merianae).Invasive black and white tegu lizards (Salvator merianae).Invasive black and white tegu lizards (Salvator merianae). USGS is working on development of tools for the detection and capture of invasive reptiles in Florida.
Invasive black and white tegu lizards (Salvator merianae). USGS is working on development of tools for the detection and capture of invasive reptiles in Florida.
Avian influenza virusDigitally-colorized negative-stained transmission electron micrograph of avian influenza viruses. Credit CDC/F.A. Murphy
Digitally-colorized negative-stained transmission electron micrograph of avian influenza viruses. Credit CDC/F.A. Murphy
Visual History of Worldwide Avian Influenza OutbreaksVisual History of Worldwide Avian Influenza OutbreaksVisual History of Worldwide Avian Influenza OutbreaksFor more information on avian influenza, see http://www.pwrc.usgs.gov/ai.
For more information on avian influenza, see http://www.pwrc.usgs.gov/ai.
Exploring Causes of Coral DiseaseThe Hawaiian Islands’ beautiful ocean and beaches attract more than 8.5 million tourists each year. The USGS aims to help Hawaii preserve its underwater natural resources by tracing how oceanography may influence coral disease outbreaks.
The Hawaiian Islands’ beautiful ocean and beaches attract more than 8.5 million tourists each year. The USGS aims to help Hawaii preserve its underwater natural resources by tracing how oceanography may influence coral disease outbreaks.
Blue-winged teal in Texas. Inset shows avian influenza virusBlue-winged teal in Texas. Inset shows avian influenza virusBlue-winged teal in Texas. Inset shows avian influenza virus
Blue-winged teal in Texas. Inset shows avian influenza virus
A bull elk with chronic wasting diseaseA bull elk with chronic wasting disease at Wind Cave National Park. The emaciated appearance and drooping ears are characteristic of latter stages of infection.
A bull elk with chronic wasting disease at Wind Cave National Park. The emaciated appearance and drooping ears are characteristic of latter stages of infection.
Culprit Identified: Fungus Causes Deadly Bat DiseaseCulprit Identified: Fungus Causes Deadly Bat DiseaseWhite-nose syndrome is a deadly disease in North American bats that has been spreading rapidly since its 2006 discovery in N.Y. State. Thus far, bat declines in the northeastern U.S. have exceeded 80%. For the first time, scientists with the U.S.
White-nose syndrome is a deadly disease in North American bats that has been spreading rapidly since its 2006 discovery in N.Y. State. Thus far, bat declines in the northeastern U.S. have exceeded 80%. For the first time, scientists with the U.S.
Disease Detectives: Investigating the Mysteries of Zoonotic DiseasesDisease Detectives: Investigating the Mysteries of Zoonotic DiseasesZoonotic diseases are those that are spread between wildlife and humans, and are an increasing health threat in the U.S. and throughout the world. As such diseases emerge, scientists with the U.S.
Zoonotic diseases are those that are spread between wildlife and humans, and are an increasing health threat in the U.S. and throughout the world. As such diseases emerge, scientists with the U.S.
You, Too, Can Track Avian Flu and Other Wildlife DiseasesYou, Too, Can Track Avian Flu and Other Wildlife DiseasesWant to stay on top of wildlife disease developments throughout the world? USGS scientists Josh Dein and Hon Ip, and USGS web content manager Cris Marsh tell us how with some great Web tracking tools.
Want to stay on top of wildlife disease developments throughout the world? USGS scientists Josh Dein and Hon Ip, and USGS web content manager Cris Marsh tell us how with some great Web tracking tools.
Invasive Zebra MusselsThe zebra mussel (Dreissena polymorpha) is a small, non-native mussel originally found in Russia. In 1988, this animal was transported to North America in the ballast water of a transatlantic freighter and colonized parts of Lake St. Clair. In less than ten years, zebra mussels spread to all five Great Lakes.
The zebra mussel (Dreissena polymorpha) is a small, non-native mussel originally found in Russia. In 1988, this animal was transported to North America in the ballast water of a transatlantic freighter and colonized parts of Lake St. Clair. In less than ten years, zebra mussels spread to all five Great Lakes.
Sonoran Desert Landscape BuffelgrassFigure 1. Examples of (left) a Sonoran Desert landscape showing the characteristic arrangement of patches of native vegetation separated by bare ground; and (right) a Sonoran Desert landscape that has been invaded by buffelgrass, which fills in the open spaces to form a relatively continuous mat of highly flamm
Figure 1. Examples of (left) a Sonoran Desert landscape showing the characteristic arrangement of patches of native vegetation separated by bare ground; and (right) a Sonoran Desert landscape that has been invaded by buffelgrass, which fills in the open spaces to form a relatively continuous mat of highly flamm
A Record-Breaking Invasive Burmese PythonThis female Burmese python broke the records for her length - 17 feet, 7 inches - and the number of eggs she contained: 87. She was first captured in Everglades National Park by USGS researchers in the spring of 2012, when they followed a "Judas snake" - a male python with a transmitter - and found her nearby in the bushes.
This female Burmese python broke the records for her length - 17 feet, 7 inches - and the number of eggs she contained: 87. She was first captured in Everglades National Park by USGS researchers in the spring of 2012, when they followed a "Judas snake" - a male python with a transmitter - and found her nearby in the bushes.
Bighead CarpBighead carp are a large and troublesome invasive species from Asia found in the great rivers of the central United States.
Bighead carp are a large and troublesome invasive species from Asia found in the great rivers of the central United States.
Gif of Asian carp, phragmites, and zebra musselsGif of Asian carp, phragmites, and zebra mussels
Gif of Asian carp, phragmites, and zebra mussels
- News
One HealthOne HealthBird FluBird FluEuropean Green CrabsEuropean Green CrabsWhite-nosed SyndromeWhite-nosed Syndrome
- FAQ
How do scientists study avian influenza in wild birds?
To learn more about the impacts of avian influenza on wild birds and the role wild birds may play in the spread of the virus, experts from government agencies have gathered samples from hundreds of thousands of live-captured, apparently healthy wild birds, hunter-harvested birds, and dead wild birds of all species. Testing methods include analyses of fecal samples and swabs of the bird’s trachea...
What should I do if I find sick or dead wildlife?
A cluster of sick or dead animals in an area might indicate a wildlife disease of concern. If you find sick or dead wildlife, contact your closest state or federal wildlife agency ; they can decide whether to investigate. You might also contact your local health department to report this occurrence.
Should I be concerned about radon in my house?
You can get an idea as to how concerned you should be about radon in your house by learning about the geology of the site and its radon potential. If your house is in an area the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) shows has a high potential for radon, then chances are that your house may have an indoor radon problem. However, the way a house is built can increase the risk - so even in areas of...
Why are pollinating bats, birds, bees, butterflies, and other animals important?
Do you enjoy a hot cup of coffee, a juicy peach, an-apple-a-day, almonds, rich and creamy dates, a handful of plump cashews, or vine-ripened tomatoes? Do you enjoy seeing the native flowers and plants that surround you? If so, you depend on pollinators. Wherever flowering plants flourish, pollinating bees, birds, butterflies, bats and other animals are hard at work, providing vital but often...
What should I do if I find dead or dying bats, or if I observe bats with signs of White-nose Syndrome?
If you find a dead or dying bat: Contact your state wildlife agency , file an electronic report in those states that offer this service, e-mail U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service biologists in your area, or contact your nearest Fish and Wildlife Service field office to report your potential White-nose Syndrome (WNS) observations. It is important to determine the species of bat in case it is a...
What is an invasive species and why are they a problem?
An invasive species is an introduced, nonnative organism (disease, parasite, plant, or animal) that begins to spread or expand its range from the site of its original introduction and that has the potential to cause harm to the environment, the economy, or to human health. A few well-known examples include the unintentional introduction of the West Nile virus, chestnut blight, the South American...
What is chronic wasting disease?
Chronic wasting disease (CWD) is a fatal, neurological illness occurring in North American cervids (members of the deer family), including white-tailed deer, mule deer, elk, and moose. Since its discovery in 1967, CWD has spread geographically and increased in prevalence locally. CWD is contagious; it can be transmitted freely within and among cervid populations. No treatments or vaccines are...
Where in the United States has West Nile Virus been detected in wildlife?
West Nile Virus has been detected in all conterminous states of the U.S., the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. Alaska, Hawaii, and Guam have no reported cases of West Nile virus in humans or animals. Distribution maps are available from the Centers for Disease Control. Learn more: Vector-Borne Diseases